Spain has been a place I’ve envisioned visiting since I began learning Spanish in middle school. It’s tough to pinpoint what drew my initial interest to the cultures of Spain, but the cities of Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Salamanca and Madrid have been on my travel list for as long as I can remember.

Mid-2016, I vowed 2017 would be the year I finally made it to Spain to begin to explore a beautiful country I’ve heard so many great things about. Now that I’m living in the UK, popping over to Spain is as simple as planning a long weekend trip.

This spring, I’m planning my first visit to Spain – a weekend getaway to Barcelona!

Barcelona, a city with incredible architecture, golden beaches and an infectious energy. Even though it’s part of Spain’s mainland, Barcelona is the capital of the Catalonia region, an autonomous region that’s proud of their distinctive culture and history.

Very much so looking forward to spending a long weekend wandering winding brick streets, popping in local markets, and enjoying leisurely lunches with pitchers of Spain’s national drink, sangria.

All photo inspiration via Polka Dot Passport. 

If you’ve been to Barcelona, what should I do on my fist visit?